10 students diagnosed with Mumps at EIU

CHARLESTON - Eastern Illinois University officials say 10 students have been diagnosed with Mumps.

Mumps is a viral illness that can be spread through respiratory droplets, direct contact with infected fluids, and through contaminated objects. Individuals suffering from Mumps are usually ill for about 10 days, and the illness is contagious. The most effective way to prevent Mumps is to receive the MMR vaccine, which provides immunity to the virus in 90 percent of those who are vaccinated. Symptoms of Mumps include a low-grade fever, muscle aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and pain and swelling of the parotid glands. Those who are affected by Mumps are contagious from three days before through five days after symptoms begin.

EIU officials are asking students diagnosed with Mumps to self-isolate during the contagious period, and for students to call Health Service at (217) 581-3013 or (217) 581-2727 if they have signs or symptoms consistent with Mumps.

The Illinois Department of Public Health says 636 cases of Mumps have been diagnosed throughout the state. For more information, click here.